The Holiday Helper Tree is an annual initiative that spreads holiday cheer by enabling members of the community to donate gifts for those in need. Armstong held its Holiday Helper Tree Kick-off on Thursday, Nov. 6, just outside of the Starbucks on campus.

Festive music played in the background as attendees enjoyed gingerbread cookies, cupcakes and hot chocolate provided by Georgia Southern’s Office of Leadership and Community Engagement. Individuals who have made requests for gifts are represented by ornaments on a Christmas tree that stood tall in the event. 

OLCE has partnered with over twenty organizations to distribute donated gifts to individuals who receive services from community non-profits like Captain’s Cupboard Food Pantry, Coastal Pet Rescue, and the Humane Society of Greater Savannah. OLCE is also accepting donations of gift-wrapping materials to give to the organizations who wrap the gifts. 

Community Engagement Coordinator Madison Brown said, “A lot of times, students don’t know exactly how they can get involved or how they can take that first step to really just make a change in their community. The Holiday Helper Tree kind of helps that, because it helps them make that first step.”

Participants can access the tree online, to select and reserve the virtual tag of the person they would like to give a gift to. Instructions for shipping will then appear on the screen. Those interested in donating and sending gifts can either create an account or sign in with their Georgia Southern credentials on the Holiday Helper Tree website. 

This initiative of giving to the surrounding community fosters leadership and service throughout the campuses of Georgia Southern. The deadline to pull a tag from the tree and ship a gift for this year’s Holiday Helper event is Dec. 5.